Puerto Escondido Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide
Explore the natural environment of Puerto Escondido through various outdoor adventures. Formal hiking trails directly within Puerto Escondido are limited. Walks along the beaches, like Zicatela or Bacocho, or exploring the cliffs, are scenic routes. Longer treks are possible in the surrounding Sierra Madre del Sur mountains, for instance, San José del Pacífico, as day trips.
Zicatela is famous for large, powerful waves ("Mexican Pipeline"), for experienced surfers only (Nov-May). La Punta has smaller, more manageable waves, ideal for intermediate surfers and longboarders. Carrizalillo has gentle waves, for beginner lessons. Numerous surf schools offer instruction and board rentals.
Snorkeling is best at calm beaches like Carrizalillo, Puerto Angelito, and Manzanillo, where clear waters allow viewing of small fish and coral formations. Dive sites directly off Puerto Escondido are limited; tours may go to nearby reefs or rock formations. Find snorkeling tours on GetYourGuide.
Boat tours offer opportunities for dolphin and whale watching (seasonal, Dec-Mar), sport fishing for marlin, sailfish, or tuna, or general coastal sightseeing. Explore boat tours on GetYourGuide.
Always check ocean conditions and warning flags before entering the water. Zicatela beach has extremely strong currents, making it unsuitable for casual swimming. Respect local warnings.
Immerse yourself in Puerto Escondido's culture through various workshops and community initiatives.
Initiatives directly support local populations. Trips into the mountains to visit small-scale coffee plantations offer coffee farm tours.
Opportunities extend beyond formal classes to casual conversation with locals.
Occasional local dance performances, like Jarabe Mixteco or Danza de la Pluma, or music events may take place during festivals or at specific venues.
Sailfish Fishing Tournament, typically occurs in November.
A month-long celebration in November featuring various cultural, sporting, and artistic events.
Easter Week sees large religious and secular celebrations, making it a very busy period with Mexican tourists.
Puerto Escondido has options for relaxation and wellness. Several hotels and independent centers provide spa and wellness services.
Numerous yoga studios, notably in La Punta and Rinconada, provide a range of yoga classes from Vinyasa to Hatha and restorative yoga.
Wellness retreats focusing on yoga, meditation, and healthy living are also available.
Traditional healing practices are limited in availability.
Several beach and pool clubs along Zicatela, Bacocho, and La Punta offer day beds, loungers, and food/drink service.
Many include pools, a comfortable way to relax by the ocean, especially when beach swimming is not recommended.
From lively party spots to tranquil, upscale environments, a club for every preference is present.
Puerto Escondido has a lively entertainment and nightlife scene, especially in specific areas.
Several nightclubs, like Congo and Sativa, are open late. They play a mix of reggaeton, electronic, and popular music.
More relaxed beach bars, often with DJs or live acoustic music, for a bohemian crowd.
The Zicatela strip is the main bar district. Walking between bars is easy.
Restaurants and street food stalls often stay open late, especially on weekends, providing late-night food options.
Some venues host specific theme nights or events. Inquire locally.
Informal bonfires are sometimes present on beaches, especially in La Punta, for relaxed evening gatherings.
For nightlife, Zicatela is for dancing, while La Punta is for a more relaxed, bohemian bar scene. Choose based on your preferred vibe.
Discover shopping opportunities in Puerto Escondido, from traditional markets to artisan crafts.
A few small artisan workshops and craft shops exist in town.
For a wider selection of Oaxacan crafts, like textiles, pottery, and alebrijes, a trip to Oaxaca City is recommended.
Hand-painted ceramics, hammocks, traditional clothing, jewelry, and wooden carvings. Food and drink souvenirs include local coffee, artisanal mezcal, and Oaxacan chocolate. Surf gear, like T-shirts, board shorts, or small surf accessories, are good souvenirs.
Mercado Benito Juárez provides a genuine local experience and products that are a good value. It is a must-visit for foodies and those looking for everyday Mexican goods.
